Canada Day running gear to stock up on

With its lightweight dual-textured fabric, the SENSE Aero Singlet won’t hold you back when you’re sprinting to the finish line. The unique fabric does a great job of keeping you comfortable in warm conditions, and the glued seam construction helps prevent chafing during longer runs. Salomon has also added reflective branding on the back, so you’re more visible when training in low-light conditions.

If you are training or racing in warm conditions, you’ll want to check out the Active Mesh Tank. Constructed with Smartwool’s sophisticated blend of merino wool and Tencel Lyocell, the Active Mesh Tank does a great job of keeping you cool when temperatures are rising. The fabric’s merino wool content also helps resist retaining odours, which sometimes plague full synthetic tanks. For additional warm-weather comfort, Smartwool has spec’d targeted mesh zones that provide better breathability, and has used offset shoulder and side seams to reduce chafing.

As the temperature and humidity increase, reach for Smartwool’s Active Mesh Racerback Tank. This stylish running top is packed with subtle design and construction features that make it perfect for summer running. Starting with the fabric, Smartwool employs its tried-and-true blend of merino wool and Tencel Lyocell. This fabric combination resists retaining odours while ensuring runners stay cool in warm conditions. Smartwool also adds targeted mesh zones that provide additional breathability and comfort as the temperature or pace increases. Finally, the racerback design ensures easy movement and additional cooling while maintaining an appropriate degree of modesty.

If you are training in warm conditions, you need a pair of the Pro Hypervent 2 split shorts. Constructed with a stretch polyester fabric and featuring a perforated back panel, the shorts deliver exceptional breathability and won’t hold you back when you pick up the pace. The inner briefs are made from a soft polyester mesh, for even greater comfort when running in hot weather. Craft has chosen a high split side seam to ensure maximum freedom of movement during speed workouts or high-intensity interval training. Other compelling details include a wide, comfortable elastic waist and a mesh pocket in the back that is perfectly sized for small essentials. Grab a pair (or two) and get ready for the hot summer season.

The S/LAB product line has always represented the pinnacle of Salomon’s design and manufacturing skills, and these shorts live up to that heritage. Weighing just 60 grams, with a 3-inch inseam, and using an ultra-light stretch fabric, these shorts will not hold you back as you sprint to the finish line. And while there is no escaping the minimalist, purpose-driving construction of these shorts, Salomon still manages to add a number of subtle, nice-to-have details. Take, for example, the addition of Salomon’s 37.5 Technology, which provides exceptional thermoregulation in warm conditions. Salomon also uses glued seams, which reduce bulk and weight and help eliminate chafing. Finally, one small side pocket is perfectly sized to accommodate an energy gel.

With their minimalist design, three-inch inseam, and split side seam, the SENSE AERO 3″ shorts are ideal for racing or training in warm conditions. Salomon uses a unique 4-way stretch perforated fabric that provides excellent breathability and won’t hold you back during hard efforts. The shorts also feature a low-profile elastic waist that easily conforms to your body without restricting movement. The addition of two small pockets at the front allows you to carry small essentials.

Constructed with a unique stretch-woven exterior fabric and a merino wool and Tencel Lyocell blend liner, the Active Lined Shorts deliver exceptional comfort and easy movement. This savvy fabric construction also avoids retaining odours (thank you, merino wool), and the Lyocell fibres help keep you cool in warm conditions. The women’s version features a modest four-inch inseam that won’t restrict movement, while the adjustable drawcord waist provides a secure and comfortable fit. Finally, a small zippered pocket is perfectly sized for small essentials.

The Swiftwick Aspire One is a great addition to every runner’s kit. With their sophisticated construction, these socks provide the mild compression, cushioning and moisture management necessary to keep your feet comfortable when running. Swiftwick employs its unique AnkleLock technology and GripDry fibres to prevent the socks from shifting and sagging during long runs. Grab a couple of pairs and treat your feet!

If you’re looking to pick up the pace, but don’t want or need a carbon-plated super-shoe, then check out the new Endorphin Speed 5. Built with a midsole featuring an updated version of PWRRUN PB foam that sandwiches a full-length nylon (not carbon) plate, the Endorphin 5 delivers a firm, responsive ride that is perfect for speedwork, tempo runs or racing. The addition of Saucony’s Speedroll construction further encourages smoother and faster transitions. From a numbers perspective, the Endorphin Speed 5 clocks in with a 36 mm heel stack and a 28 mm forefoot stack, for 8 mm of drop. These are proven numbers and should work for the majority of runners. For the upper, Saucony has employed a new lightweight engineered mesh that provides excellent comfort and breathability. Underneath, an XT-900 carbon rubber outsole provides solid traction and has been strategically beefed up in high-wear areas for increased durability. If you want a fast training and racing shoe with a firm, responsive ride, consider the Endorphin 5.

With its sophisticated midsole and minimalist upper, the S/Lab Phantasm 2 is clearly optimized for competitive racing and fast workouts. Salomon has spec’d a bouncy PEBA foam midsole and a full-length carbon-fibre plate, resulting in the responsive and highly propulsive ride that competitive runners demand. The addition of an aggressive rocker only further encourages a faster roll-through. The minimalist upper is similarly focused on speed and provides a snug, foot-hugging fit while avoiding superfluous padding and overlays; it’s an excellent example of “less is more.” From a numbers angle, the S/LAB Phantasm 2 comes in at a feathery 219 g, has a 35-mm heel stack, a 26-mm forefoot stack, and a 9-mm drop. This last dimension may be worth noting if you are a runner who prefers a lower drop; otherwise, if you are looking to add a super shoe to your footwear quiver, make sure you check out the S/LAB Phantasm 2.

Products reviewed in this article: